I was telling my new friend, Paula, the other day that I’m a five star girl when it comes to staying in a big city in India. Feeling a little bit guilty for my flamboyant lifestyle, I quickly interjected into the conversation that “in the Himalayas I can go country real easy”, but when I’m in the city, I just can’t seem to sacrifice my love for luxury and convenience. And, I continued on, “since I was born and raised in Hollywood, it’s in my DNA that I can’t take the Hollywood out of the girl. It’s just not natural!
I arrived in Hyderabad after staying in a five star hotel in Barcelona. Getting off the plane in India I was feeling a little nervous as to where the promoter who had invited me to speak at his conference was going to put me up. This was a “spiritual” conference, and spiritual conferences do not equal 5 star luxury hotels. After waiting for a little over 2 hours for him to pick me up (some things never change!) it now became really important as the clock struck 3 a.m. where I stayed. Nope, there was not going to be any roughing it tonight for this valley girl!
Trying not to be too “unspiritual” I decided on the way to the hotel he had secured for me that I would remain optimistic and open and not prejudge whatever accommodations he had set up. Once we arrived at the hotel of his choice, my greatest fears were quickly realized. The shabby curtains, funky furniture and mothball smell would absolutely not do. Seeing the disappointed and horrified look on my face, he said very quickly, “Well, there is one other place we could try, although it is rather late at night”.
When we drove up to The Golkonda Hotel, I knew immediately that everything was going to be just perfect!
Even though it was the middle of the morning, three bright-eyed concierge attendants happily greeted me and quickly took my bags. Walking up to the reception I was greeted with the same loving energy by the receptionist.
As I looked around the lobby, I was surprised to find that the hotel had the same feeling as if I were in a Beverly Hills hotel. Everything was new and fresh and the décor was extremely warm and inviting.
I especially loved how open everything felt. The restaurant was extremely tasty and had a really fun and open feeling to it. As I walked to the elevator I was once again greeted by two bellmen who immediately insisted that they carry my bags.
By this point in time, I wouldn’t have been surprised if they carried me over the threshold of my hotel room. This staff was definitely on top of it!
As I walked into my bedroom I was pleased to find that the room had all of the conveniences (if not more) of any of the five star hotels in which I had stayed in Europe and the U.S.
I had my very own oversized flat TV, complimentary bottled water, my ironing board and iron were already set up, I had my own little refrigerator-yup, I was definitely going to enjoy this experience.
I called down to find out if they had wireless, and was greeted with an enthusiastic,
“of course, mam, we even have a business center if you need one.” With that last bit of information, I took out my pj’s, brushed my teeth and fell into a dreamy sleep.
When I woke up in the morning, I was overjoyed to find that this adorable boutique Hotel also had a work out room. Fabulous! I can eat all of the gulab jamins my little heart desires!
I couldn’t wait to write about this hotel, so many of you are now traveling to and from India that I thought you would appreciate this fabulous find!
Be sure and mention my name to Vipul Mohan when you check in. He’s totally cool and will make sure you have everything your heart desires.
Oh yes, and one other really important thing…this hotel is very close to some of the best shopping in Hyderabad!!!
Namaste!
Hotel Info:
GOLKONDA HOTEL
Masab Tank,
Near Banjara Hills,
Hyderabad – 500 028.
Ph: +91-40-55110101, 2332 0202
Fax: +91-40-55110102, 2332 0404
e-mail :
info@hotelgolconda.comA>
sales@hotelgolconda.com
golkonda@nettlinx.com
hotel_golkonda@hotmail.com